Noncosmetic Reasons to Consider Veneers

Porcelain veneers are not only used to transform your smile by concealing cosmetic flaws, they have benefits that extend beyond aesthetics. Veneers are thin coverings bonded over the front of the teeth. Dentists use veneers to address a range of dental problems such as tooth discoloration, uneven teeth, and damaged teeth.

Benedict Kim, DDS, and the team at A Caring Dental Group possess the skill and experience to provide outstanding results. Not only can you enjoy a sparkling smile, but veneers can also help you maintain oral health.

Our talented team recommends veneers to people looking to achieve an attractive smile and good oral health. Here we discuss some noncosmetic reasons you may want to consider veneers. 

Protects oral health

Chips and cracks in your teeth are more than a cosmetic issue. Having chipped or cracked teeth, and even barely noticeable breaks, puts your oral health at risk.

Teeth are solid and strong but vulnerable to penetration by bacteria. Cracks and crevices give bacteria places to harbor — and once they find a cozy space to take up residence and grow, they can wreak havoc from the inside out. 

Cracks in your teeth increase your risk of dental decay and gum disease. Additionally, cracked, chipped, or broken teeth affect your bite. 

Adding a protective covering over your tooth with a veneer can keep germs out and help you maintain a normal bite, lowering the risk of infections, cavities, and more.

Corrects spaces in teeth

Like cracks and chips, gaps in your teeth may seem like a cosmetic issue. While it’s true that gaps in your teeth are less appealing and may affect your self-confidence, spaces in teeth threaten your oral health in the same way as cracks and chips. 

A smile with snug teeth looks nice, but it’s also healthier than a grin with a lot of spaces or gaps.

Having spaces between teeth creates extra breeding areas for bacteria. And the more areas where bacteria can grow, the higher the risk or plaque and tartar buildup. 

Extra gaps also make it easier for neighboring teeth to shift out of position, leaving you with a misaligned bite. Even a minor bite misalignment can cause problems such as jaw pain. It can also lead to chronic headaches. 

Proper bite allows for even pressure on the top and bottom teeth, serving to keep your teeth strong. When a gap in your teeth shifts your bite alignment, it creates uneven pressure, which may weaken the affected teeth. 

Reinforces damaged or weakened enamel

Enamel, the outer layer of your teeth, is the smooth, hard surface that gives your teeth their white gleam. It also acts as protective armor. If it becomes weak or damaged, it’s gone for good. Unfortunately enamel doesn’t regenerate. 

Several things can weaken your enamel. Sometimes damage to the enamel develops over the years. In other cases a genetic predisposition makes you more prone to weak enamel. Lifestyle choices can also impact the strength of your enamel. Smoking and regularly drinking acidic beverages weaken and damage your enamel. 

When your enamel deteriorates, bacteria can penetrate this compromised barrier, putting you at greater risk for tooth decay.

Veneers help reinforce weakened or damaged enamel. And, porcelain veneers can last for years, keeping your teeth protected as well as — or better — than your own enamel. 

Whether for cosmetic or oral health reasons, veneers offer a broad range of benefits. If you’re considering veneers, rely on A Caring Dental Group and Dr. Kim to keep your smile healthy. To get started, contact our Cleveland office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kim or book your appointment online today.